What new Giants HC John Harbaugh likes about QB Jaxson Dart

Long before the New York Giants were finally able to confirm this past weekend that John Harbaugh would be their next head coach, a report shared that Harbaugh had "a high regard for the Giants' job and for" 2025 rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.

During his introductory news conference on Tuesday afternoon, Harbaugh discussed what he learned about Dart by reviewing game film and through conversations with the 22-year-old. 

John Harbaugh "can't wait" to start working with Jaxson Dart

"It starts with the quarterback, for sure," Harbaugh said during his comments about Dart, per Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk. "You build your team around your quarterback. You build your team around your players and what they do well, and I like the way he plays. I like his talent, skill set, all the things he’s accomplished. But more than that, I like who he is and what he’s about. To me, he’s about football. This young guy loves football. He wants to talk football all the time. And that’s what I like doing too, so I think we’re going to have a lot of great conversations. Can’t wait to get started with him."

Dart and others associated with the Giants reportedly met with Harbaugh at the team's facility back on Jan. 14. One would think Dart is excited about the thought of playing under the coach who previously worked with Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, as Jackson became a two-time regular-season Most Valuable Player. 

Jackson earned the second MVP Award of his career in his first campaign playing under then-Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. On Tuesday morning, The Athletic's Dan Duggan noted that Monken "is the heavy favorite to follow Harbaugh to New York and" serve as the Giants' next OC.

Does Jameis Winston have a future with Giants after hiring of John Harbaugh?  

Along with Dart, primary backup quarterback Jameis Winston is on track to be on the Giants roster when the new league year opens in March. Winston was at the team facility for Tuesday's media event, and Harbaugh mentioned that he knows what the 32-year-old can do during a game. 

Back in the fall of 2024, Winston passed for 334 yards with three touchdowns to help the Cleveland Browns earn a win over the Harbaugh-led Ravens.

"I’m excited about Jaxson Dart," Harbaugh added during his comments. "I’ve seen your backup quarterback, too, Jameis, up close and personal two years ago. I saw him complete a bunch of passes. Remember that game? It was a great game for you." 

Winston may now be tasked with helping Dart learn a new offense through the spring and summer months.